Orthostatic hypotension is a sudden drop in blood pressure that causes dizziness or nausea when changing body position. It can be caused by lifestyle issues, medications, or medical conditions. Chronic cases may require medical attention.
A feeling of dizziness or nausea when you change body position is known as orthostatic hypotension or postural hypotension. The condition is caused by a sudden drop in blood pressure that causes a person to experience short-term dizziness. While usually not harmful in itself, chronic orthostatic hypotension can be a sign of a more serious condition and may require medical attention in severe cases.
When sitting or lying down, blood tends to pool in the legs, feet, and lower regions of the body, draining the upper body of its typical blood flow level. If a person stands up suddenly, blood loss in the upper body may become apparent, causing lightheadedness, lightheadedness, or feeling faint. In severe cases, this can lead to fainting, vomiting, or blurred vision.
The reason orthostatic hypotension is not always experienced is that the body tries to protect itself quickly from lack of blood by employing vasoconstriction. This natural process circulates blood rapidly through the body, returning blood pressure to normal and preventing any symptoms of orthostatic hypotension. If a secondary factor, such as an illness or blood problem, slows the return of blood to the upper body, symptoms can be mild or severe.
The causes of orthostatic hypotension are quite varied. Lifestyle issues such as inadequate nutrition, dehydration, or heatstroke can lead to a temporary drop in blood pressure and cause dizziness when confronting a problem. Older people are also more likely to experience the condition as their circulation system is naturally slowed down somewhat.
Some medications can also lead to orthostatic hypotension. It can be a common side effect of high blood pressure medications, especially if the drug is taken in large doses. Many medical conditions such as diabetes, heart problems and Parkinson’s disease have been shown to reduce blood pressure and make orthostatic hypotension more common. Women who have recently given birth and people on bed rest are also considered to be slightly more likely to experience symptoms. It can also be a common problem for people suffering from eating disorders like anorexia and bulimia.
If dizziness or nausea upon standing is a constant or frequent occurrence, you should contact a doctor. While relatively harmless in itself, orthostatic hypotension can indicate that patients with the condition often include bloodworms, exercise tests, and heart rate tests. If your blood pressure is determined to be too low for normal function, certain prescription drugs may be given to treat the condition.
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